Frangipani

“Frangipani” refers to a tropical flowering tree or shrub, scientifically known as Plumeria.

Key Facts:

  • Scientific Name: Plumeria spp.
  • Family: Apocynaceae
  • Origin: Native to Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America, but widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
  • Growth: Can grow as small trees or shrubs, typically 3–8 meters tall.
  • Leaves: Large, glossy, and elongated; deciduous in some climates.
  • Flowers: Highly fragrant, waxy flowers in colors like white, yellow, pink, and red. They often have a distinct central color gradient.
  • Fragrance: Sweet, exotic, and heady; commonly used in perfumes, essential oils, and traditional garlands (e.g., in Hawaii for leis).
  • Uses:
    • Ornamental in gardens and landscapes
    • Source of fragrance oils for perfumes and aromatherapy
    • Cultural and ceremonial uses in Polynesia, India, and Southeast Asia
  • Care:
    • Requires full sun
    • Well-draining soil
    • Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established
    • Prune for shape and to encourage flowering

Frangipani is often confused with other tropical flowers because of its scent and appearance, but its signature waxy petals and intense fragrance make it unique.

Growing Frangipani (Plumeria rubra)

Here’s a comprehensive guide for , tailored for both beginners and more advanced gardeners:

1️⃣ Climate & Location

  • Sunlight: Full sun is ideal — at least 6–8 hours daily for optimal flowering.
  • Temperature: Prefers warm climates (20–35 °C). Can tolerate short periods of light frost but prolonged cold (<10 °C) can damage or kill the plant.
  • Wind: Provide some shelter from strong winds to prevent broken branches and desiccation.

2️⃣ Soil Requirements

  • Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil. Avoid heavy clay soils.
  • pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0).
  • Drainage: Critical — Frangipani roots are prone to rot if waterlogged. Raised beds or pots with drainage holes work well.

Tip: You can mix perlite, coarse sand, or pumice into native soil to improve drainage.

3️⃣ Propagation Methods

  1. Stem Cuttings (most common & fastest flowering)
    • Take 12–18 inch mature stems during the dry season.
    • Let the cuttings dry for 1–2 weeks until the ends form a callus.
    • Plant in well-draining soil mix.
    • Water lightly until roots establish (2–3 weeks).
  2. Seeds
    • Sow fresh seeds in a sandy mix.
    • Germination in 2–3 weeks.
    • Flowering may take 2–5 years — slower than cuttings.
  3. Grafting
    • Used for rare cultivars to maintain specific flower colors or patterns.

4️⃣ Watering

  • Young plants: Water moderately until roots establish.
  • Established plants: Drought-tolerant. Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during dry periods.
  • Avoid overwatering: Can cause root rot and fungal infections.

5️⃣ Fertilization

  • Type: Use a fertilizer high in phosphorus (P) for blooms — e.g., NPK 10:30:10.
  • Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during active growing season (spring to summer).
  • Dormancy: Reduce or stop fertilization during fall/winter.

Tip: Adding trace elements like magnesium and micronutrients improves flower color and fragrance.

6️⃣ Pruning & Maintenance

  • Timing: Late winter or early spring before new growth.
  • Purpose: Remove dead, weak, or crossing branches; shape plant; encourage branching.
  • Technique: Cut just above a node; avoid cutting into the old wood too deeply.

7️⃣ Pests & Diseases

  • Common Pests: Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.
  • Common Diseases: Root rot, rust fungus, black tip rot.
  • Prevention: Ensure good drainage, adequate air circulation, and inspect plants regularly. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for pest control.

8️⃣ Flowering & Fragrance

  • Blooming Season: Late spring to summer (may continue into fall in warm climates).
  • Flower Care: Deadhead old blooms to encourage new flowering.
  • Fragrance: Intensifies at night to attract pollinators like moths.

9️⃣ Container Growing

  • Ideal for colder climates or rooftop gardens.
  • Use large pots (≥12–16 inches) with fast-draining soil.
  • Bring indoors or cover during frost.

1️⃣0️⃣ Special Tips

  • Frangipani can be shaped as bonsai with careful pruning and root management.
  • Overwatering is the most common cause of death; let soil dry out between watering.
  • Cuttings root best in warm, dry conditions — avoid humid rainy periods if possible.